From Our Special Correspondent

Chandigarh: The term of the committee appointed to identify villages that are to be transferred from Punjab to Haryana in lieu of Chandigarh has been extended by another month. the commission was expected to submit its report by the end of the current month. The one month extension has been given in view of the non-preparation of the case by the concerned states. Punjab government circles have expressed deep anxiety over the change in the terms of reference to the Mathew commission. The changes provide sufficient scope for injustice to Punjab. A Punjab legislator, S. Baldev Singh Mann, moved an unofficial resolution in the Assembly which was passed by a majority vote by the Akali party. The strongly worded resolution condemned the central government’s action in violating the RajivLongowal accord by making additions in the terms of reference to the Mathew Commission.

It has also been learnt that Barnala and Balwant Singh indicated to the Prime Minister during their meeting that if remedial steps were not taken by the Central government, then, Akalis might be forced to recommend the re imposition of President’s rule. Prime Minister is visiting the State on November 6 and this matter would be discussed in detail with him. He is coming to inaugurate a joint North Indian Cultural Center.

Article extracted from this publication >>  November 8, 1985